Zunino makes progress in recovery from broken bone

SEATTLE -- Rookie catcher Mike Zunino, sidelined with a broken hamate bone in his left hand since July 26, caught a bullpen session on Friday and has begun swinging the bat as he gets closer to coming off the disabled list.

Zunino said that "things are progressing nicely" as he's gone from hitting off a tee to now hitting tossed balls and playing catch.

"I'm hoping I'll be back soon, not too much longer," said the 22-year-old Zunino, who hit .242 in 29 games for the Mariners before the injury sidelined him.

General manager Jack Zduriencik definitely expects the youngster to be back in the coming days.

"I'm hearing really good things," Zduriencik said. "I know he feels well and is looking forward to seeing how it goes taking batting practice this week. It's a progression. Right now he's on schedule or ahead. I do expect him to certainly be with us in September at the latest."